The Inside Look

Now that we have been here in Sydney for about four weeks, we thought we would show everyone inside our modest new "flat", near the Dundas Railway Station. We are on the third floor in adjoining buildings where about 20 other senior missionary couples live. The furnishings are adequate and comfortable. Since it has been cold and wet most of this last month (it's still winter here), the temperature has been chilly inside but we wear warm clothing and use electric space heaters when appropriate. It is now our home for the 22 months and we have grown to love it, a place to relax and enjoy each other's company.

Be Prepared - Missionary Style

We are now into our third week here in Australia. As we learn more about our duties and responsibilities, we are amazed at what is taking place here already. We are little overwhelmed by it all, sort of drinking water from a fire hose. At least, that is the impression we are having at the beginning.

This past week we had the experience of being with the full-time missionaries, first on Monday, Aug. 13 in a Zone Conference of the Sydney North Mission and again on Saturday, Aug. 18 when we participated in a service project. All missionaries in Australia and Paupa New Gunina are to receive a 72 hour kit in case of emergency or possible sudden evacuation. We helped fill about 850 backpacks of supplies including water, food, personal hygiene products, first aid kits, etc. It was fun being with some of the elders from both the North and Sydney South Mission in a warehouse owned by a prominent member to accomplish this important task. The backpacks are to shipped immediately and be available for emergency use only. Thus, we are helping be prepared, a good scout motto.

Getting Acquainted

We are now in to our second week in Sydney. We are learning what our duties and responsibilities are and enjoying the climate (it's really still winter though most days are warm and dry). We haven't seen any kangaroos but the other day one of the groundskeepers brought by a blue-tongue lizard that likes to roam. Sister Warby had a fun time holding it. We also went last Saturday, August 11 on the ferry through Sydney Harbor and saw the famous Opera House and downtown Sydney. We are working hard, learning what we need to do as well as becoming acquainted......

Settling In

We are settling in with our new assignments and getting to know and love the folks down under. The two pictures are of the staff in front of our small building and a bike ride we took on Saturday, Aug. 4 at the Olympic Park nearby in Sydney.

Arrival Down Under

We have made it to Australia. We arrived on Wednesday, Aug 1, 2007 with great anticipation for meeting new people and hopefully relatives. We have settled in to our new apartment (called flat) and are working at the LDS Public Affairs Office on the temple grounds in Sydney. More to come later. We are now officially "down under."